Salmon Fishing in the Pacific

Fishing sports are growing in popularity and one of the most prized fishes is the salmon. There are many varieties and each fisherman has his or her favorite. The granddaddy of Pacific salmon is the Chinook. It can weigh in at up to 100 pounds and gr

   Fishing sports are growing in popularity and one of the most prized fishes is the salmon. There are many varieties and each fisherman has his or her favorite. The granddaddy of Pacific salmon is the Chinook. It can weigh in at up to 100 pounds and grow to 40 inches in length. Chinook make up only about one percent of the annual salmon harvest.

The Sockeye, from Alaska, is the most valuable of all salmon. It grows to 24 inches in length and weighs between six and nine pounds. It makes up 25 to 30 percent of Alaska's commercial fishing. During spawning season, the males turn a beautiful red, and therefore are often called "red" salmon.

The Coho salmon is the third most valuable and important salmon in the fishing industry. The Coho is also known as "silvers" because of their silvery sheen. These salmon are popular in seafood markets and are often sold whole to consumers. They are great for canning and for smoking. The Coho averages about 29 inches and weights approximately 9 pounds.

Chum salmon are not worth much due to their pale and yellow meat. Consumers don't usually favor them. They grow to 30 inches in length and weigh in at about 8 pounds.

Pink salmon is the lowest on the list of Pacific salmon, although it is the most abundant. Pinks are small, at 22 inches in length and only weigh about four pounds. Consumers generally buy pink salmon in cans rather than fresh.

Sport fishermen love the charters available off the northern Pacific coast. If you enjoy fishing, think about a charter to carry you to the best salmon fishing spots. Charters often offer whale watching as well, so you can sightsee and fish while you're out. You can charter a boat for a day or a week. Choose carefully, as there are many, and you'll want to choose just the right package for you. Try for one without too many others on board. Remember, the fewer fishermen, the more fish for you.

Make the right choice and you will enjoy good fishing and come home with some delectable meals. Even if you don't catch anything, you're sure to have a great time in the salty sea air with fellow fishermen.

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Flipper' Thomas is the chief editor for The Fat Salmon, the #1 source on the internet for information about Salmon. For more articles on Salmon why not visit: www.fatsalmon.com/articles
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